LESSON 5

to look out: to be careful or cautious (also: to watch out)

Both of these idioms can occur with the preposition for.

• "Look out!" Jeffrey cried as his friend almost stepped in a big hole in the ground.
• Look out for reckless drivers whenever you cross the street.
• Small children should always watch out for strangers offering candy.

to shake hands: to exchange greetings by clasping hands

• When people meet for the first time, they usually shake hands.
• The student warmly shook hands with his old professor.

to get back: to return (S)

• Mr. Harris got back from his business trip to Chicago this morning.
• Could you get the children back home by five o'clock?

to catch cold: to become sick with a cold of the nose for throat

• If you go out in this rain, you will surely catch cold.
• How did she ever catch cold in such warm weather?

to get over: to recover from an illness; to accept a loss or sorrow

• It took me over a month to get over my cold, but I'm finally well now.
• It seems that Mr. Mason will never get over the death of his wife.

to make up one's mind: to reach a decision, to decide finally

• Sally is considering several colleges to attend, but she hasn't made up her mind yet.
• When are you going to make up your mind about your vacation plans?

to change one's mind: to alter one's decision or opinion

• We have changed our minds and are going to Canada instead of California this summer.
• Matthew has changed his mind several times about buying a new cat.

for the time being: temporarily (also: for now)

• For the time being, Janet is working as a waitress, but she really hopes to become an actress soon.
• We're living in an apartment for now, but soon we'll be looking for a house to buy.

for good: permanently, forever

• Ruth has returned to Canada for good. She won't ever live in the United States again.
• Are you finished with school for good, or will you continue your studies some day?

to call off: to cancel (S)

• The referee called off the soccer game because of the darkness.
• The president called the meeting off because she had to leave town.

to put off: to postpone (S)

• Many student's put off doing their assignments until the last minute.
• Let's put the party off until next weekend, okay?

in a hurry: hurried, rushed (also: in a rush)

• Alex seems in a hurry; he must be late for his train again.
• She's always in a rush in the morning to get the kids to school.